Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that
helps keep the body's nerve and blood cells healthy and helps make DNA, the genetic material
in all cells. Vitamin B12 is also very important in the body's use of folic
acid. Numerous studies suggest low B12
status contributes to cognitive decline and memory problems in the elderly.
It is believed that as much as 40% of persons over 50
in the US have insufficient or deficient levels of B12. B12, found in all animal-based foods
including meat, fish, poultry, dairy, and eggs, is plentiful in the American
diet, but people who are elderly and/or taking medicines for acid reflux are at
risk for low vitamin B12 because of inadequate digestion of the nutrient. Two steps are required for the body to absorb
vitamin B12 from food. First, hydrochloric acid in the stomach separates vitamin B12 from the food proteins.
Next, vitamin B12 combines with a
substance made by the stomach called intrinsic factor. Only then can it be absorbed by the body. So, persons with reduced stomach acid have
compromised B12 absorption.
Some researchers theorize that one of the ways low B12
contributes to cognitive problems is that B12 is required to metabolize
supplemental folic acid. The US wheat
supply has been fortified with folic acid since 1998 so intake of the vitamin
is often quite high. Without adequate
vitamin B12 to process supplemental folic acid, it is believed that the
unmetabolized folic acid may be depositing on neural tissue and contributing to
mental declines.
What to
do: The most common bloodwork tests of B12 levels
are known to be quite inaccurate as B12 is stored in the liver. If you take medicine for acid reflux, the
diabetes drug Metformin, or are over 50 discuss taking a supplement with your
healthcare provider. The supplemental
form is easily absorbed regardless of your stomach acid production. If supplementing, choose one that dissolves
under the tongue.
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